From Carolina to Capitol Hill

Taking on D.C.

Student Jordan Dick says his experience with the Washington Semester Internship Program
has made him more connected to Carolina.

Jordan Dick is uncertain whether his future lies in the law or in advertising. But he does know
that his semester in Washington, D.C., working for South Carolina’s senior senator
has given him skills that will help him in either career.

A junior advertising major, Dick and 12 other students from S.C. colleges and universities,
are living and working in Washington, D.C., as part of Carolina’s Washington Semester Internship Program. They take classes with the program’s professors, work on Capitol Hill and explore
the city.

“I saw this as an opportunity to expand what I know,” says Dick, an Indian Land, S.C.,
native. “It’s much different than back home. I’m meeting a group of new people, and
I hope to grow from this experience.”

Dick is using the opportunity to try to choose a career path, but he knows the experience
working from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day for U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham will be valuable no matter what he chooses.

“I’m learning how to be professional and successful,” he said. “I’m learning to take
pride in what I do.”

He also has learned how to represent South Carolina and USC.

“I feel a stronger connection to the university because, up here, I’m a representative
of Carolina,” Dick said. “If I meet somebody who has never been to South Carolina,
I’m their first impression.”

Dick, who also is minoring in business, said he has built relationships with students
from other universities.

“It just speaks volumes that USC offers this program. It’s a privilege,” he said.
“The work I’m doing now will have an impact on my career in the future. It’s a really
fun experience, and I’ve got a lot of stories from the job.”

For more information about the Washington Internship Semester Program check out the
website.

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